Stuffed Bitter Melon (Bharwan Karela) with a Nicaraguan Twist

Ingredients

In this Nicaraguan adaptation of Bharwan Karela, the traditional Indian spices are replaced with Nicaraguan flavors. The stuffing incorporates local ingredients such as ground meat, rice, onions, tomatoes, and garlic, which are commonly used in Nicaraguan cuisine. The cooking technique remains the same, with the bitter melons being stuffed and cooked until tender. The result is a unique fusion dish that combines the best of Indian and Nicaraguan flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Bharwan karela, so you can check it out.

• 4 bitter melons 4 bitter melons
• 250g ground meat (beef or pork) 250g ground meat (beef or pork)
• 1/2 cup cooked rice 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cut each bitter melon lengthwise and remove the seeds and pith.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, mix together the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, cumin powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Stuff each bitter melon with the meat and rice mixture, pressing it firmly.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Place the stuffed bitter melons in the pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until they are lightly browned.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the bitter melons cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender.
7. 7.
   Serve the stuffed bitter melons hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bitter melon — To reduce the bitterness, soak the sliced bitter melons in salted water for 30 minutes before stuffing them.
• Ground meat — Choose lean ground meat for a healthier option, or use a combination of beef and pork for added flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of chili powder or a chopped chili pepper to the stuffing mixture.
• Serve the stuffed bitter melons with a side of Nicaraguan rice and beans for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify.

Serving advice

Serve the Nicaraguan Stuffed Bitter Melon as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It pairs well with a side of Nicaraguan rice and beans for a satisfying and balanced meal.

Presentation advice

For an appealing presentation, garnish the stuffed bitter melons with fresh cilantro or parsley leaves. The vibrant green herbs will add a pop of color to the dish.